Even before we had arrived in La Chapelle d’Abondance while still in Montreux and imbibing at our favorite bar at Le Montreux Palace, one of the servers was actually from Châtel — just next door to La Chapelle d’Abondance. When they found out we would be staying there, they immediately recommended that we visit Les Cornettes. I always love recommendations from locals when traveling to get the inside scoop on some of their favorite places.

Les Cornettes is a fixture in La Chapelle d’Abondance and has been run by the Trincaz family for five generations. One visit, and it is clear why this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The family actually has a few restaurants in the area but Les Cornettes is perhaps the most famous.

The dining room is like walking into a comfortable home with traditional decor and a welcoming fireplace. As soon as you are seated a welcome Kir Royal is presented which is a very nice touch and set the tone for a wonderful experience. We enjoyed the restaurant so much that when we had friends arrive during our stay we decided to go back once again so that they could experience it as well.

On my first visit I had a lovely fresh mixed salad with local greens and a bit of their famous Papy Gaby’s house-made juniper berry ham that is aged for fifteen months (more on this later). For my main course I had a traditional Haute-Savoie regional dish of Le Berthoud which is a piping hot bowl of local cheese from Abondance blended with wine and garlic (akin to fondue) and accompanied with potatoes served in their skin. I mean how can you go wrong with bowl of melted cheese and potatoes? It was absolutely delicious and definitely a must-try if you visit. For dessert I had to try their crème brûlée and it did not disappoint. It was absolutely decadent — not too sweet, wonderful notes of fresh vanilla and the perfect caramelized sugar crust on top.

For my second visit I wanted to try something different and landed on their famous charcuterie plate that was a dried meat and sausage lovers dream come true with a selection of local meats included the aforementioned Papy Gaby’s ham. The ham is among the finest I have ever come across with the fragrant notes of the juniper berries really taking this to the next-level. My main course was the Côte de veau which was cooked to pink perfection and served with sautéed morels and a small potato cake.

It is clear why Les Cornettes has endured the test of time because you feel like you are dining with family in a very comfortable environment. If you find yourself in La Chapelle d’Abondance, do not miss dining at Les Cornettes. You will not be disappointed.